Opt-Out Dates for Players

Written by Oldorioles

With the roster squeeze starting to be felt, I thought I would look at the opt-out dates any of our nine remaining ST invitees might have. This list may not be 100% accurate, but I've tried to research each invitee for any dates. Here's what I've come up with:

These players have amassed six or more years of major league service time, but signed a minor league contract for this season. Within five (5) days of the season opener (~3/26), clubs have to inform the player if they will make the club. They are then released or awarded a $100K "retention bonus". In addition, each of these players also has the right to opt-out of their current contract on June 1st (6/1) if they have accepted their assignment to AAA.

- Delmon Young- Alexi Casilla- Johan Santana- Alex Gonzalez*

* I have not seen Alex Gonzalez's name on any of the Article XX(B) Free Agent Lists, but it appears he would also qualify.

Contractual Opt-Out Date:- Alfredo Aceves

Aceves does not have the service time to be an Article XX(B) FA. However, he apparently had written into his minor league deal two opt-out dates if he is not on the 25-man roster. The first is 3/28, and he has 48 hours to decide whether to leave the organization and pursue a contract with other clubs or continue his career at Norfolk. The second is 6/30, and he has 72 hours to make a decision.